Balancing the Risk of Falls
Falling is one of the most common causes of injury among elders. Declining eyesight, the affects of osteoporosis or arthritis, medication that might cause dizziness, Parkinson’s disease, or excessive caution born of a prior fall all contribute to your loved one’s vulnerability to falling.
Many older people fear falling, and with good reason. A simple misstep can result in the lifetime need of a walker or cane. Here’s how to create a safer home environment:
Assess each room in the house for safety. Look for obstacles in commonly used pathways, such as between the bedroom and bathroom, or between the kitchen and den. Clear away wires, baskets, small items of any kind.
Place dishes, glasses, bath products, clothes, etc., all within easy reach, to minimize bending, stepping over, or using step stools. Stairs should have secure handrails on both sides. Mark each step with brightly colored tape.
Install grab bars near toilets and inside tub area. Be sure there are non-skid strips inside the shower, and that rugs or runners are placed securely with rubber liners. Consider buying a toilet that is elevated. Grab bars might also be useful wherever your parent dresses.
Make sure lighting is bright and even throughout the house. Install nightlights to illuminate common nighttime pathways, such as between bedroom and bathroom, or in dark hallways. Install an easy-to-reach light by the bed.
Replace beds and chairs that are difficult for your elder to get into or out of. Weakness, fatigue and illness can make it a struggle to get up and down.
Practical shoes with rubber, non-skid soles are best, as are slippers or socks with non-skid bottoms. Sandals, open toed shoes or high heels should be avoided.
Place multiple portable phones within easy reach of the bed, a favorite chair and in the kitchen. Hurrying to answer a ringing phone is a bad idea. If your elder does fall, a nearby phone may be more easily reached.
If a fall occurs in spite of precautions, make an appointment with the doctor whether or not there is an apparent injury. A physician can determine whether issues such as medication, stroke, dehydration, etc., might have caused the fall, and help to keep another from happening.